THE PRESIDENT: I want to reassure the American people that the full resources of the federal government are working to assist local authorities to save lives and to help the victims of these attacks. Make no mistake: The United States will hunt down and punish those responsible for these cowardly acts.

I've been in regular contact with the Vice
President, the Secretary of Defense, the national security team and my
Cabinet. We have taken all appropriate security precautions
to protect the American people. Our military at home and
around the world is on high alert status, and we have taken the
necessary security precautions to continue the functions of your
government.

We have been in touch with the leaders of
Congress and with world leaders to assure them that we will do whatever
is necessary to protect America and Americans.

I ask the American people to join me in
saying a thanks for all the folks who have been fighting hard to rescue
our fellow citizens and to join me in saying a prayer for the victims
and their families.

The resolve of our great nation is being
tested. But make no mistake: We will show the world that we
will pass this test. God bless.